Ingredients:
- 8 cups popped popcorn (plain, without butter or salt)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a sweet and salty flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts, optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Popcorn: Pop the popcorn and remove any unpopped kernels. Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter together. Stir frequently to ensure even melting. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and add sea salt if desired. The salt can enhance the sweetness and add a delightful contrast.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn. Use a spatula to gently fold the popcorn until it’s evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
- Add Nuts and Coconut (Optional): If you want to add some extra crunch and flavor, fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
- Form Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small clusters of the chocolate-coated popcorn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until the clusters are firm.
- Serve: Once the clusters have hardened, remove them from the refrigerator. Serve and enjoy your delicious chocolate popcorn clusters!
Note: Feel free to get creative with additional toppings like drizzling white chocolate over the clusters or adding sprinkles for a festive touch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life.